Briscoe, Hattie Elam. 1919-

In 1956, Hattie Elam Briscoe became the first Black woman to graduate from St. Mary's University School of Law, and was the only Black woman attorney in Bexar County for the next 27 years. Hattie was born in Shreveport, Louisiana in 1916. After graduating with a B.A. from Wiley College in 1937, Hattie taught 4th grade in Wichita Falls until 1941. In the 1940's Hattie became a licensed beauty operator and taught cosmetology at Hicks Beauty School and Wheatley High School. After earning her M.S. degree at Prairie View A & M College in 1951, Hattie entered St. Mary's University School of Law the following year. She graduated first in her class at the age of 40. Briscoe has received numerous honors, awards and accolades throughout the region for her professional achievements and community involvement. She is an active member of several organizations including the San Antonio Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, YWCA, and NAACP.